Summer is upon us Austin! If you’re anything like us – a plunge into cold water is ideal after a day of touring Austin in over 100-degree heat. We love Barton Springs, but it’s not the only cool place to hang out this summer. Check out five of Austin’s favorite watering holes and pools to escape the heat this summer.
Photo via Shaggy Texas.
Deep Eddy
401 Deep Eddy Ave. Austin, 78703
Austin’s other favorite spring-fed pool, located across the river from Barton Springs. Originally built in 1915, Deep Eddy is a cool non-chlorinated 35-foot lap and recreational pool. Layout your towel in the grass, people watch and jump in in when the heat just gets to be too much. More on prices and operation hours here.
Photo via Pinterest.
Sculpture Falls
Barton Creek Greenbelt Trail, Austin, TX 78746
Our first swimming spot on the Greenbelt, you’ll need to work a little to find this paradise (1.5 mile hike both ways), but it’s worth it once you get there – as you’ll find others lounging among the limestone rocks above waterfalls, looking down on clear waters. The great thing about this spot is you can bring your dog swimming or play with others. Trust me, you’re never more than 20 feet away from a great dog in Austin! Read more on how to reach this free watering hole and what to expect when you arrive.
Photo via Trek Texas.
McKinney Falls State Park
5808 McKinney Falls Pkwy, Austin, TX 78744
Take a short cruise out of the city center to visit this Texas State Park, complete with waterfalls, miles of trails, picnic areas and more. This hidden city gem in Southeast Austin is a great place to spend a hot summer’s day. Follow signs for Upper and/or Lower Falls to swim. Both are wild and serene all at once. Check out their website for more information of visiting the park.
Photo via Only in Your State.
Campbell’s Hole
1601 Spyglass Dr. Austin, TX 78746
Another Greenbelt favorite in the summer, Campbell’s Hole is rocking in the summer. The best way to reach Campbell’s Hole is by entering via the Spyglass Access to the Greenbelt. From here, you can sunbathe on top of limestone rocks slightly submerged in water, hike, climb and also bring your pup here.
Photo via Free Fun in Austin.
Commons Ford Ranch Metropolitan Park
614 Commons Ford Rd, Austin, TX 78733
Nestled among mansions and private estates is piece of Lake Austin open to everyone. Commons Ford is your very own spot of sprawling land on the lake. We know it’s hard to come by these days. It’s usually pretty sleepy and you’ll have to jump right in as there’s no beach or ladder into the river. It’s also a fun spot to watch wake boarders and people cruising along in their boat.
Know of a great watering hole in Austin that we missed? Let us know in comments below. We’re always on the lookout for more Austin fun!